HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA CHURCH Iceland, Hallgrimskirkja, the Church of Hallgrimur, is a national monument, dedicated to the most renowned sacred poet of Iceland, Hallgrimur Petursson. The parish is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland. Hallgrimskirkja towers over the centre of Reykjavik, and its 73 meter high tower provides a wonderful view over all Reykjavik. Building work started in 1945 and the church was finally consecrated on 26 October 1986. The state architect, Gudjon Samuelsson (1887-1950) designed the church. He drew richly on Icelandic traditions and materials. The concert organ was inaugurated in 1992. It was constructed by Johannes Klais Organworks in Bonn, Germany. Friends of the Arts of Hallgrimskirkja was founded in 1982 and have promoted rich and varied artistic events. A festival of sacred art is held every other year and the International organ summer is held every year.
